Dancer Interview: MacKenzie Blue Tapia

We are all dancers; it is a deeply rooted part of being human. I have worked hard to be able to dance at this level, and to have validation through performing is cathartic and fills my creative cup! It defines me as a person and makes me really, really, really happy.

How do you like to define yourself as a woman?

Well, for one, I have a vagina. But in all seriousness, because I am a woman I get to define my own femininity, whatever that may be. It changes daily.

Name a moment when you most felt like a woman & why?

I most felt like a woman when I realized I could speak to my mother on equal terms and as a person, rather than just as her child. To even come close to my mother as a woman would be an honor.

Name a moment when you least felt like a woman & why?

I least felt like a woman when I decided (for the foreseeable future) to not have children. There is a stigma and certain disappointment associated with that decision that makes me question my womanhood.

Without women creating art we are missing half of the story. Art is something that defines us as humans, so how could we miss out on the woman's perspective? To me, it is not so important that women create art since we are already creating art and always have been. It is important, however, to have that art shown and recognized on equal ground.

What has been the most relatable moment from the concert for you?

For me, the most relatable moment from the concert is the full company piece "Je Suis Une Femme". The moment we started working on that choreography, I knew I was in the right place. Every day I put on my mask both literally and metaphorically, which disgusts me but is also something I am very proud of. That chaotic nature within myself, and of just trying to keep my shit together...well that's me!

Why do you think all types of people should go see Femme?

All types of people should go see Femme, because all people have women in their lives. Mothers, daughters, sisters, wives, friends, they are all being represented on the stage. I don't think anyone will walk away from this concert without taking a piece of that with them, and learning something new about themselves and the women in their lives.